The Best Places to Book for a Staycation in Perth, Australia

Take all that money you saved on airfares, and spend it at one of the most indulgent hotels in Perth. COMO The Treasury is an all-in-one destination housing some of the best bars, restaurants and boutiques as well as a day spa, pool and gym under one copper-trimmed, Victorian-era roof. Have breakfast at Post, lunch at Long Chim, afternoon tea in the Cape Arid Rooms, dinner at Wildflower and a massage at COMO Shambhala – all without stepping outside. And, just to cap it all, the rooms are triple the size of those in most other city hotels.

When it comes to luxury staycations, Perth is the only Australian city where you can splurge at a glam Ritz-Carlton property – and this one doesn’t disappoint. Start at Songbird, its elegant bar with killer views of the Swan River, Elizabeth Quay and the city skyline. Sit by the fire pit on the terrace, and order the namesake cocktail in a bird-shaped glass with a grazing plate of West Australian seafood. For romance, book the couples spa suite, or go solo in the sauna before a massage. Don’t miss the riverview infinity pool, preferably just before sunset.

The sophisticated interior design makes Fraser Suites feel like a luxurious home away from home. Simple things like an L-shaped lounge, full-size dining table and a decent desk create a comfortable homey feeling, while floor-to-ceiling windows and balconies capture panoramic views of the Swan River and the WACA Ground – an unbeatable position for cricket fans. These serviced apartments come as studios with kitchenettes or as spacious apartments, ranging from 55sqm (592sqft) to 65 sqm (700sqft), with one or two bedrooms, modern kitchens and concealed laundries. This is the next best thing to being a Perth local – in fact, it might even be better.

It’s a younger crowd at the Alex, thanks to its proximity to the nightlife of Northbridge. Bars, pubs, clubs and Perth’s gay scene are within stumbling distance. The lobby has a cafe and bar, the mezzanine is a co-working, lounge and kitchen area, and the rooftop overlooks the city. Accommodation ranges from bunk rooms to family suites with two bathrooms, stocked with natural Australian products by Vasse Virgin. If you value walkability over wardrobe space, the Alex is the best boutique hotel in town.

This well-established five-star hotel has an unbeatable location in the Perth CBD (Central Business District). Not only is it handy for business travellers, it’s also a great choice if you have tickets to a performance next door at the Perth Concert Hall. There’s no pressing need to step out – the restaurant, Firewater Grille, does a great express lunch (main course, glass of beer or wine and cajun fries). There’s a groovy bar, a gym, a sauna, a steam room and an outdoor pool. Most rooms have views of the Swan River and a full-size bath and shower. Yes – the Dux certainly equals luxe.

Live like royals on Kings Square at this business-friendly hotel near the CBD, which also caters for leisure travellers. Stage Bar & Kitchen serves an impressive farm-to-fork breakfast, with al fresco seating so you can people-watch the passers-by on Wellington Street. Rooms are configured for maximum quiet and privacy, with special touches like a Nespresso machine and a full range of gourmet teas, and there are some wheelchair-accessible rooms on the lower floors. The enviable location is only minutes from Perth Arena, shopping and dining opportunities and Laneway bar district.

Pretend you’re in Asia at this landmark riverside resort, across the street from Como Beach. The exterior looks like a temple on the South Perth foreshore, but the theme is not overdone. Designed for weddings and events, Pagoda comes with high hospitality standards. Waterwall Restaurant is open for breakfast, lunch and dinner. We also recommend its high tea – there’s a vegan menu available. With easy access to the North and South freeways, Pagoda is only five minutes to the city centre and three minutes to Perth Zoo.

The parklands and waterfront strip of cafes, bars and restaurants in South Perth make this area feel removed from the busy city, yet it’s just across the Swan River. With city skyline and river views, Quest provides lots of space to make your own, plus an outdoor BBQ and entertaining area. Choose from one to three bedrooms – all very restrained and refined, with their monochrome furnishings – and you’ll get a full laundry and kitchen; alternatively, take a studio, with a kitchenette and access to the guest laundry. The hotel also features a gym and a business lounge. It’s unfussy living – but you’ll fall for it in an instant.